What happened?
The 8th meeting of the India-US Joint Working Group on Aircraft Carrier Technology Cooperation (JWGACTC), under the India-US Defence Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI), was held in India from May 13 to 16, 2025. A US delegation led by Rear Admiral Casey Moton met with Indian counterparts, including Rear Admiral Vishal Bishnoi. Both sides appreciated progress in information exchange on Aircraft Carriers and discussed future cooperation plans, releasing a Joint Statement.
Why it matters to India
This meeting signifies a crucial step in strengthening the strategic defence partnership between India and the United States, particularly in the critical area of naval technology. Enhanced cooperation in Aircraft Carrier Technology is vital for India’s indigenous defence capabilities and its ambition to modernize its naval fleet. The exchange of valuable information and discussions on future collaboration will likely contribute to India’s efforts to develop and maintain advanced aircraft carriers, thereby bolstering its maritime security and power projection in the Indian Ocean region and beyond. This collaboration is also important for India’s broader defence indigenization efforts, potentially leading to technological transfers and joint development projects that reduce India’s reliance on foreign military equipment.